Net sport

Net sport may refer to any of several sports where a net is a standard part of the game. The term usually applies to sports where the net separates the opponents.

Net sports usually include:

In each of these sports, the ball or bird must go over the net to be in play.

Although basketball, hockey, water polo and other sports have netting around the goal area designed to more clearly indicate when goals are scored, they are not usually considered "net sports". Similarly, lacrosse sticks have a loose netting that is used to catch and fling the ball, but again lacrosse is not usually considered a "net sport".

The Los Angeles Daily Times reports: "Net sports are unique in that the equipment is light, portable and affordable, and partners and opponents are easy to find. The sports are easy to learn, and the social aspect of the game[s] appeals to those who find the health club to be an isolationist palace of mirrors."